A leading doctor claims that obesity isn't as big of a health issue as people have been led to believe. Appearing on the Diary of CEO podcast, Dr Gabrielle Lyon said that the biggest thing people need to focus on now is their skeletal muscle.
'Everybody focuses on obesity, but obesity is not our problem,' she told host Steven Bartlett. 'If you are in the lower one-third of strength, you have a 50% greater risk of dying from nearly anything. You have to prioritise skeletal muscle.'
Skeletal muscle makes up almost 40% of a body's total mass and is responsible for movement, metabolism, energy, the storing of nutrients and more. 'This is the organ of longevity, the only organ system that you have voluntary control over,' Dr Lyon shared. 'Your skeletal muscle is your primary site for glucose metabolism and fatty acid metabolism. It is your body armour,' she continued. 'Those that are in the lower one-third for strength, you have a 50% greater risk of dying from nearly anything.'
To combat this, Dr Lyon said that resistance training with weights is key to good health and longevity. If you don't, not only are you at risk of physical effects like mobility issues, you're also risking a loss of brain functionality.
'The majority of dementia is Alzheimer's dementia, which plays a role in metabolic regulation - type three diabetes of the brain,' she said. 'If your skeletal muscle is unhealthy, you are likely having not only skeletal muscle insulin resistance but brain insulin resistance... You cannot be sedentary and be healthy.'
The Importance of Strength Training
Research has recently suggested that weightlifting is important for most adults, including the elderly. Resistance training was found to have strength benefits that lasted years into retirement. People naturally lose muscle function as they get older with faltering grip and leg strength viewed as a strong predictor of death in elderly people. Resistance training, which can involve weights, body weight or resistance bands, has been shown to help prevent this from happening.
The Dangers of a Sedentary Lifestyle
Dr Lyon stressed that getting older isn't all about the way you look, but how it should be all about your performance. She then shared a concerning fact: 'Only 6 to 8% of people are meeting the resistance training guidelines and the majority of individuals are sedentary.' Inquiring about his future health, Bartlett asked what life would look like if he neglected exercise for the next 30 years. Dr Lyon responded with a stark caution: 'Are you ready?'
She outlined the harmful outcome of living a sedentary lifestyle, predicting that by the age of 61, without regular exercise, Bartlett would face a high risk of serious diseases. 'You're 30 right now, so Alzheimer's disease and cardiovascular disease is likely throughout your lifespan,' Dr Lyon warned Bartlett. She suggested his reproductive health would suffer: 'Your testosterone is probably low and your sperm quality isn't as good as it could have been.' Bartlett asked if there is a connection between fertility and muscle mass, to which Dr Lyon confirmed. Concluding her warnings, Dr Lyon painted a grim picture of Bartlett's potential future, describing it as one of significant health deterioration - including obesity, sleep apnoea, impaired brain and metabolic health.
Why You Should Prioritize Skeletal Muscle
The expert advises exercising at least three times a week to build strong skeletal muscle. She explained: 'Your skeletal muscle is your primary site for glucose metabolism and fatty acid metabolism. It is your body armour. Those that are in the lower one-third for strength, you have a 50% greater risk of dying from nearly anything.' Dr Lyon also highlighted the connection between strength and brain health, stating: 'The majority of dementia is Alzheimer's dementia, which plays a role in metabolic regulation - type three diabetes of the brain.' She warned that having unhealthy skeletal muscle can lead to insulin resistance in both the muscles and the brain, emphasising that a sedentary lifestyle is incompatible with overall health.
Strength Training: The Key to a Longer, Healthier Life
Dr Lyon's message is clear: prioritize skeletal muscle health. It's not just about looking good, it's about living longer and healthier. By incorporating strength training into your routine, you can dramatically reduce your risk of chronic diseases, improve your cognitive function, and increase your overall quality of life. Remember, building muscle isn't just about aesthetics; it's about building a stronger, healthier you.
